A loving family patriarch with a legacy of investing & philanthropy

Edward M. Ackerman served as the general partner and portfolio manager of Ackerman Associates, L.P. from 1969-2007.

Edward “Ed” Ackerman created a legacy that extends both deep and wide—from the visionary investment management firm that he founded to the extraordinary contributions within his profession and community, to a deep devotion to his family.

Edward was a native of Dallas, Texas, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School and the University of Texas. He served as a lieutenant in the Air Force, stationed in Japan, during the Korean War. Following his service, he did post-graduate study in finance at New York University before returning to Dallas as Regional Manager. Venturing out in 1969, Edward founded Ackerman Associates, L.P. a hedge fund, and the first of its kind in Dallas. Over the next four decades, he compiled a legendary track-record of investment success.

Over his career, Edward lent his investment experience and wisdom to many organizations. He served as the Vice-Chairman of the Investment Advisory Committee of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and as a member of the Investment Advisory Committee of the Permanent Fund at the University of Texas. In addition, Edward was a long-standing member of the Investment Committee of the Hockaday School, where he was bestowed the honor of Life Trustee. He also served as a trustee and Chairman of the Finance Committee at the St. Mark’s School of Texas and as a trustee and member of the Investment Committee at the Southwestern Medical Foundation.

Edward retired in 2007 to focus on his philanthropic pursuits. Along with his late wife, Helma, he managed the Edward and Wilhelmina Ackerman Foundation, which provides financial support to many charitable causes. In addition to the aforementioned organizations, key beneficiaries of Edward’s time and resources included the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies at the University of Texas at Dallas, the Dallas Holocaust Museum, Hebrew Union College, the Society of Classical Reform Judaism, and Temple, Emanu-El.

Edward’s passion for investing and his steadfast character have left an indelible mark on the investment firm he founded.  Yet, to those who knew him best, he is remembered for his warmth, humility, generosity, and as the loving patriarch of his family, which he considered his greatest legacy.